Romania’s Defence Ministry on Tuesday welcomed Norway’s initiative to help the country acquire an advanced Patriot surface-to-air missile system, following its recent supply of a similar system to Ukraine.

The Norwegian government announced its substantial financial contribution – amounting to NOK 1.4 billion (around €118 million) – during the Nordic Council meeting in Reykjavik between Monday and Thursday (28-31 October). 

This funding is part of the Immediate Action on Air Defence Initiative coordinated by Germany and will enable Romania to strengthen Euro-Atlantic security by improving and expanding its air defence capabilities. 

The close collaboration between Romania and Norway reflects the “shared and unwavering commitment” of both nations to address current security challenges and maintain ongoing support for Ukraine, said Romania’s National Defence Ministry. 

With this contribution, Norway demonstrates “not only its strong support for Romania but also its commitment to allied security,” said Defence Minister Angel Tîlvăr. 

“We remain united with Ukraine in these critical times,” Tîlvăr added. 

In early September, Romanian President Klaus Iohannis signed a law to donate a Patriot missile system to Ukraine. On 3 October, Defence Ministry spokesman Constantin Spînu confirmed that the system had arrived in Ukraine.  

Romania purchased seven such systems and has received four so far. Following the donation to Ukraine, Romania now has one operational system left. 

(Catalina Mihai | Euractiv.ro) 

Source: Εuractiv.com